Defence and security technology is playing an increasingly crucial role in the success of humanitarian aid work in vulnerable regions around the world. Companies that offer integrated and customised solutions to meet the needs of diverse situations are going to be the service providers who remain relevant and effective in post-conflict situations.

Defence and security technology is playing an increasingly crucial role in the success of humanitarian aid work in vulnerable regions around the world. Companies that offer integrated and customised solutions to meet the needs of diverse situations are going to be the service providers who remain relevant and effective in post-conflict situations.

This was one of the trends observed by Håkan Ekvall, Business Development Executive at Saab Kenya, during the sixth annual AidEx Conference held in Brussels from 16 – 17 November 2016.

“It’s a human right to feel safe. Defence and security technology is increasingly being used to save lives in myriad, unexpected ways and to aid humanitarian organisations supporting recovery and development in conflict zones. Post-conflict zones suffer from damaged or destroyed roads and infrastructure, a lack of medical facilities, maintenance of saved or salvaged equipment, and the need for ongoing protection against potential flare-ups of destructive activity is increasing,” says Ekvall.

“Defence equipment and personnel are well-equipped to operate under these conditions, and can support humanitarian missions in even the most remote areas,” says Ekvall.

The theme of this year’s AidEx conference was localisation and delegates explored how collaborating with local communities could improve the effectiveness of humanitarian efforts.

Areas with protracted crises require aid workers to demonstrate sensitivity by working with communities and stakeholders on the ground. Careful planning, with local leaders in the drivers’ seat, is essential to addressing the growing gap between needs and resources.

“Saab offers a holistic solution to humanitarian aid teams, offering a far deeper service than just bringing specific products to market. Our solutions are compatible with multiple platforms, meaning that particular elements can be retrofitted into an aid agency’s existing solutions,” says Ekvall.

The company noted a huge interest from participants in its SM-EOD (system for selective and contact-free disposal of mines) and C-IED products and solutions.

Saab provides a broad range of world-leading products services and solutions within military defence and civil security to the Sub-Saharan/South African market. An impressive range of defence forces across the globe are using South African electronic warfare and avionics technology being designed and produced at Saab Grintek Defence facilities in South Africa. Saab also has business units and local employees in Cape Town, South Africa, in Gaborone, Botswana and in Nairobi, Kenya. Saab is a global company with operations and employees in about 40 countries around the world. Through innovative, collaborative and pragmatic thinking, Saab constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

Last updated: 08 December 2016 • 12:52

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